Transfer Case Shift Control Switch
The BW 4493/4494 transfer case features a 4-button shift control switch (1) located on the instrument panel. When the vehicle has the ignition key in the RUN position, the transfer case shift control module starts monitoring the transfer case shift control switch to determine if the driver desires a new mode/gear position. At a single press of the transfer case shift control switch, the lamp of the new desired position begins flashing to inform the driver that the transfer case shift control module has received the request for a new mode/gear position. The lamp continues to flash until all shifting criteria have been met and the new mode/gear position has been reached, or has been engaged. Once the new mode/gear position is fully active, the switch indicator lamp for the new position remains ON constantly.
During normal driving situations, the transfer case operates in the 4HI mode. When the 4HI mode is selected, the transfer case shift control module sends 12-volts to an electrical motor, which is the transfer case encoder motor. This motor rotates the transfer case shift detent lever shaft which moves the shift forks and range sleeve to obtain different modes/ranges.
The BW 4493/4494 transfer case has the added feature of also providing the driver with 3 manual mode/range positions:
- 4HI - 4-Wheel Drive High Open
- 4HI Lock - 4-Wheel Drive High Locked
- 4LO Lock - 4-Wheel Drive Low Locked
The driver may choose to select any of these mode/range positions while driving the vehicle. However, the transfer case will not allow a shift into or out of 4LO Lock unless the following criteria has been met:
- The engine is running.
- The automatic transmission is in NEUTRAL.
- The vehicle speed is below 5 km/h (3 mph).
This transfer case also has a NEUTRAL position. A shift to the NEUTRAL position allows the vehicle to be towed without the transmission output shaft rotating. Refer to the Owners Manual for instructions for proper towing of the vehicle.
NEUTRAL position may be obtained only if the following criteria have been met:
- The engine is running or the ignition is ON.
- The automatic transmission is in NEUTRAL.
- The vehicle speed is below 5 km/h (3 mph).
- The transfer case is in the 4HI mode.
Once these conditions have been met, press and hold both the 4HI and 4LO Lock buttons for 10 seconds. When the system completes the shift to NEUTRAL, the red NEUTRAL indicator illuminates.
The BW 4493/4494 transfer case has 1 other additional feature along with the 3 modes. The electronic rear differential lock can only be used in the 4LO Lock mode with a vehicle speed at or below 32 km/h (20 mph).